Bioactivities and Mechanisms of Action of Diphyllin and Its Derivatives: A Comprehensive Systematic Review

Biological evaluation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) targeting by phaeosphaeride A and its analogs

The inhibitory activities of phaeosphaeride A (PPA), phaeosphaeride B, and four synthetic derivatives against phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and cell proliferation in cervical (HeLa) and breast (MDA-MB-231) cancer cells were evaluated. PPA inhibited IL-6-induced STAT3 phosphorylation and cell proliferation at similar concentrations. The structure-activity relationship studies revealed that the enantiomer of PPA was the most potent of the evaluated phaeosphaerides in both inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation and cell growth. PPA clearly inhibited the IL-6-activated STAT3 signaling pathway. However, the presence or absence of activation of the STAT3 signaling pathway in cells showed no relationship to the antiproliferative activity. Notably, the possible covalent bond-forming ability of PPA was critical for its biological activities.

Regioselective Photoredox Catalyzed Cycloadditions of Acyclic Carbonyl Ylides

A photoredox catalyzed [3 + 2] dipolar cycloaddition between acyclic carbonyl ylides generated from α-cyano epoxides and dipolarophiles is described. This method, influenced by anionic charge localization and temperature control, enabled the synthesis of regioselective functionalized cyclic ethers. By leveraging different dipolarophiles, Lewis acid mediated activation afforded either furan or hydroxy-dihydronaphthalene scaffolds. A direct synthesis of lignan natural products isodiphyllin and diphyllin is achieved by exploiting the nitrile's reactivity as a directing handle for the desired regioisomer.

New Highly Selective Antivirals for Chikungunya Virus identified from the Screening of a Drug-Like Compound Library

Chikungunya fever is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Treatment of CHIKV infections is currently supportive and does not limit viral replication or symptoms of persistent chronic arthritis. Although there are multiple compounds reported as antivirals active against CHIKV in vitro, there are still no effective and safe antivirals. Thus, active research aims at the identification of new chemical structures with antiviral activity. Here, we report the screen of the Pandemic Response Box library of small molecules against a fully infectious CHIKV reporter virus. Our screening approach successfully identified previously reported CHIKV antiviral compounds within this library and further expanded potentially active hits, supporting the use of reporter-virus-based assays in high-throughput screening format as a reliable tool for antiviral drug discovery. Four molecules were identified as potential drug candidates against CHIKV: MMV1634402 (Brilacidin) and MMV102270 (Diphyllin), which were previously shown to present broad-spectrum antiviral activities, in addition to MMV1578574 (Eravacycline), and the antifungal MMV689401 (Fluopicolide), for which their antiviral potential is uncovered here.

Alkylide derivatives of diphyllin: synthesis and preliminary anticancer evaluation

Fourteen diphyllin 4-C-substituted alkylide derivatives were designed and synthesized using a Heck coupling and subsequent hydrogenation reaction. Olefins 3g and 3i exhibited the highest cytotoxicity on breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 with IC50 values of 0.08 and 0.07 µM, and they showed weaker V-ATPase inhibitory potency compared to diphyllin.

Biofilm inhibition/eradication: exploring strategies and confronting challenges in combatting biofilm

Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms enclosed in a self-produced extracellular matrix, posing a significant threat to different sectors, including healthcare and industry. This review provides an overview of the challenges faced due to biofilm formation and different novel strategies that can combat biofilm formation. Bacteria inside the biofilm exhibit increased resistance against different antimicrobial agents, including conventional antibiotics, which can lead to severe problems in livestock and animals, including humans. In addition, biofilm formation also imposes heavy economic pressure on industries. Hence it becomes necessary to explore newer alternatives to eradicate biofilms effectively without applying selection pressure on the bacteria. Excessive usage of antibiotics may also lead to an increase in the number of resistant strains as bacteria employ an advanced antimicrobial resistance mechanism. This review provides insight into multifaceted technologies like quorum sensing inhibition, enzymes, antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophage, phytocompounds, and nanotechnology to neutralize biofilms without developing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Furthermore, it will pave the way for developing newer therapeutic agents to deal with biofilms more efficiently.

Bioactivities and Mechanisms of Action of Sinomenine and Its Derivatives: A Comprehensive Review

Sinomenine, an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from the roots and stems of Sinomenium acutum, has been extensively studied for its derivatives as bioactive agents. This review concentrates on the research advancements in the biological activities and action mechanisms of sinomenine-related compounds until November 2023. The findings indicate a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, including antitumor, anti-inflammation, neuroprotection, and immunosuppressive properties. These compounds are notably effective against breast, lung, liver, and prostate cancers, exhibiting IC50 values of approximately 121.4 nM against PC-3 and DU-145 cells, primarily through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Additionally, they manifest anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects predominantly via the NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2 signaling pathways. Utilized in treating rheumatic arthritis, these alkaloids also play a significant role in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, as well as organ protection through the NF-κB, Nrf2, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. This review concludes with perspectives and insights on this topic, highlighting the potential of sinomenine-related compounds in clinical applications and the development of medications derived from natural products.